Rogue Afghan National Army soldier killed

20 June 2011

A targeted Coalition Special Forces operation against the rogue Afghan National Army soldier suspected of killing Lance Corporal Andrew Jones last month has resulted in his death and the detention of a man believed to be his brother.

The operation occurred in Khowst Province overnight and was based on intelligence developed by Coalition and Afghan agencies since the shooting in Chora on 30 May.

Chief of the Defence Force Air Chief Marshal Angus Houston said despite intentions to detain Shafied Ullah, his death could not be avoided after he posed a direct threat to the Coalition Special Forces team carrying out the mission.

“I understand from reporting received this morning that Shafied Ullah drew a pistol when confronted by the Coalition Special Forces team and was shot and killed,” Air Chief Marshal Houston said.

“A man believed to be his brother was also detained in the operation and is now being questioned in an effort to further understand the motive behind the shooting of Lance Corporal Jones.”

Air Chief Marshal Houston said the death of Shafied Ullah closed a chapter in the tragic death of Lance Corporal Andrew Jones.

“Across the Coalition and the Afghan National Security Forces, there has been tremendous efforts directed towards bringing the man suspected of the shooting to justice and for that support I personally thank General Petraeus and General Karimi,” Air Chief Marshal Houston said.

“While it gives me no great pleasure that Shafied Ullah is dead, I am pleased that this man no longer poses a threat.

“The family of Lance Corporal Andrew Jones have been advised and they have requested that the media respect their privacy at this time.”